Newport

The City of Newport, founded in 1639 as a center for religious tolerance and liberty of conscience, was incorporated as a city in 1784 and continues to grow and adapt itself as the City by the Sea. From whale-oil trade to sophisticated research and development of underwater technologies, our economy has revolved around our deep water harbor and our location at the mouth of the Narragansett Bay, New England’s largest estuary.

The US Navy, beginning with the founding of the Naval War College in 1884, influenced the development of the City and continues to be an important partner in shaping the local economy. Newport’s natural and cultural resources, with its incomparable historical houses, mansions, traditions and attractions have made it known the world over for its beauty, culture and quality of life. Located 35 minutes from I-95, Aquidneck Island comprises of Newport, Middletown and Portsmouth (total population 60,000) and is within easy reach of Boston (1.5 hours) and New York (3.5 hours). We welcome over 3 million tourists per year, and host numerous events and activities, including international sailing competitions, the annual Newport Folk Festival and the Newport Jazz Festival.